LaFontaine Automotive today announced it has partnered with the nationally-acclaimed Detroit Youth Concert Choir & Performing Arts Company (DYC), recently featured on America’s Got Talent, to produce an inspirational message that underscores the importance of family and community. Soulfully-sung to the iconic “We Are Family” song, originally recorded by Sister Sledge, LaFontaine Automotive Group and DYC’s message of hope and unity can be viewed HERE.
“We wholeheartedly felt there was no better group to deliver an inspirational message to lift spirits, inspire unity and solidify the importance of coming together, than the amazing children of Detroit Youth Choir,” said Ryan LaFontaine, Chief Operating Officer, LaFontaine Automotive Group. “These bright young minds are so full of energy and heart, and we knew early on when we set forth to undertake this inspirational project that they were the perfect voice for this.”
The #FamilyStrong message really hits home during these times. From the heroic frontline heroes and first responders, to the individuals delivering essential services and parents’ home with their children, we are all in this together and stronger as one.
Two DYC students commented:
“Throughout these uncertain times, our Group and passionate employees have been committed to giving back to our local communities, honoring hometown heroes and helping those in need,” said Kelley LaFontaine, VP, LaFontaine Automotive Group.
LaFontaine Automotive recently donated thousands of much-needed personal protective equipment to frontline heroes at seven Michigan hospitals. In total, over 25,000 latex gloves, 11,000 N95 masks and 200 protective glasses were be delivered in mid-April. In addition, they provided meals for three local hospitals to nourish the frontline heroes across multiple shifts.
As a family-owned business, Ryan and Kelley LaFontaine knew firsthand the struggles local businesses are going through, and were moved to help. As a true community partner, LaFontaine Automotive Group launched its “Care for our Community” initiative, aimed at supporting businesses by encouraging consumers to responsibly shop local.
“Being a true community partner and providing hope and support to those in need has been instilled in us all at an early age from our mom, Maureen LaFontaine,” added Kelley. “We continue to honor her legacy through our #FamilyStrong message.”
About LaFontaine Automotive Group
Founded in 1980 by Michael Sr. and Maureen LaFontaine, the award-winning and nationally-recognized LaFontaine Automotive Group includes 36 retail franchises, seven collision centers and 17 Michigan retail locations. The group employs over 1,500 individuals. It’s the mission of the LaFontaine Family to personalize the automotive experience by building lifelong relationships that connect families and strengthen the community. The LaFontaine commitment to customers, staff, and local communities is demonstrated by active participation and contributions to numerous non-profit organizations, educational institutions and charities throughout southeast Michigan. The combination of both the mission and core values provides the basic foundation of our promise … to treat every customer like they are members of our family. From sales, to service to parts, LaFontaine Automotive Group is able to meet any customer’s specific needs. LaFontaine represents the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Fiat, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, KIA, RAM, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen. The LaFontaine Family Deal; it’s not just what you get, it’s how you feel. Visit www.familydeal.com for additional details. www.familydeal.com
About Detroit Youth Choir
The Detroit Youth Concert Choir & Performing Arts Company (DYC) is a non- profit 501 (c) 3 organization that services young people throughout the Detroit Metropolitan area. The Detroit Youth Choir teaches and develops students through music education, dance, and theatrical arts. Our program is designed for youth between the ages of 8-18 under the direction of Anthony White & Staff.
The Detroit Youth Choir vision is to offer the youth of Metro Detroit a world class performing art experience that develops their creative skills and talents.
The Detroit Youth Choir has performed at various events around the City of Detroit, nationally, and internationally. DYC had the opportunity to perform at the Michigan Outdoor Adventure Center’s ribbon cutting ceremony before Governor Rick Snyder and Mayor Mike Duggan. We also performed at the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony before many celebrities, dignitaries, and pioneers of the music industry.
The Detroit Youth Choir’s most recent major accomplishment(s) include: participating in a documentary IMAX film titled “America’s Musical Journey” which was be shown in all IMAX Theatres across the U.S and DYC recorded with the UK group The Go! Team and was featured on seven songs on The Go! Team’s album. The Detroit Youth Choir entered the national competition America’s Got Talent where the choir traveled Los Angeles, CA and reached 2nd place. The organization has also performed for other local organizations such as; Spectrum Children Services, Detroit Pistons, U of M Basketball Club Ann Arbor, FCAAN, BCBS, DTE, Cleveland Cavaliers, Scholars for Dollars, Focus Hope, Arise Detroit, A.I.M. Youth Conference, The D-drop New Year’s Eve Celebration, IMPACT TV, Light up Detroit organization, Youth Development Commission of Detroit and The Detroit Public Library.
